St Ann’s Well, Buxton

Historic Site in Buxton

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Rosser1954

St Ann's Well is one of the best places to visit in Buxton, a naturally warm spring that has drawn visitors for centuries with its smooth, gently aerated mineral water. Located just steps from the Crescent, this unassuming yet deeply historic site is steeped in legend, healing traditions, and long-standing local reverence. Bring a bottle, join the quiet stream of visitors, and enjoy a sip of water that rises from a mile beneath the town.

What makes St Ann's Well especially memorable is the continuity of its story. From medieval pilgrims to Mary Queen of Scots, to today's curious travellers, countless people have come here seeking comfort, refreshment, and connection to Buxton's ancient spa heritage. It remains a great place to visit on a walking tour of Buxton, especially if you want to experience living history in one simple gesture: tasting the warm spring itself.

History and Significance of St Ann’s Well
Things to See and Do in St Ann’s Well
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting St Ann’s Well
Where to Stay close to St Ann’s Well
Is St Ann’s Well Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting St Ann’s Well
Nearby Attractions to St Ann’s Well

History and Significance of St Ann’s Well

The spring at St Ann's Well has been revered for centuries. During the Middle Ages, the site was associated with St Anne, the mother of the Virgin Mary, and a chapel once stood here until it was dissolved during the reign of Henry VIII. Pilgrims visited to seek healing from the warm, mineral-rich water, which was believed to possess restorative properties.

Archaeological finds across Buxton show that the Romans also settled here, calling the area Aquae Arnemetiae, “the spa of the goddess of the grove.” St Ann's Well sits at the heart of this ancient landscape. Its waters have flowed continuously, maintaining a steady temperature of about 28°C, well above the ambient air temperature and unusual among British springs.

Historical figures also found solace here. Mary Queen of Scots famously drank from the spring during her imprisonment at nearby Chatsworth House in the 16th century, reflecting its long-standing reputation for therapeutic qualities.

Things to See and Do in St Ann’s Well

The main attraction is the well itself-a public drinking spout where you can fill a bottle or taste the warm mineral water directly. Visitors often describe the water as smooth and lightly aerated, distinct from many other natural springs in the region. Its journey begins a mile underground, picking up minerals and a trace of harmless radiation before emerging at the surface.

The well is located in a picturesque spot opposite the Crescent, making it an easy and pleasant addition to a walk around Buxton's spa quarter. Spend a moment watching locals and visitors alike take turns at the spout-this simple ritual is part of the town's everyday charm.

Nearby, the Pump Room offers further insight into Buxton's spa history, and the surrounding architecture, including the Crescent and the Colonnade, creates a beautiful backdrop for lingering or taking photos.

How to Get There

St Ann's Well sits directly opposite the Crescent in central Buxton and is easily reached on foot from all major town landmarks. Several town-centre car parks are just a short stroll away.

Buxton railway station is approximately 7-10 minutes on foot, offering convenient access for visitors arriving by train. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Practical Tips on Visiting St Ann’s Well

Best time to visit St Ann's Well: Early morning for quieter streets and the soft sound of the spring flowing.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free; the water is available to all.
Opening hours: Accessible at all times.
Official website: Check local Buxton visitor information for spa history resources.
How long to spend: 5-15 minutes, depending on interest.
Accessibility: The well is on level ground with step-free access.
Facilities: Public toilets nearby; cafés and shops around the Crescent.
Photography tip: Capture the well with the Crescent as a striking architectural backdrop.
Guided tours: Occasionally included in Buxton spa heritage walks.
Nearby food options: Tearooms and cafés in The Square, the Colonnade, and Pavilion Gardens.

Where to Stay close to St Ann’s Well

For an elegant stay directly beside the spring, Ensana Buxton Crescent Hotel offers historic spa luxury. A boutique and tranquil option is No6 The Square, conveniently located across from the gardens. For a reliable and affordable stay, Premier Inn Buxton provides easy access to the town centre and nearby attractions.

Is St Ann’s Well Worth Visiting?

Yes, St Ann's Well is absolutely worth visiting. It's a simple yet meaningful experience that connects you directly with Buxton's Roman roots, medieval traditions, and spa-town identity. Whether you're here for heritage, curiosity, or a taste of the warm mineral water itself, it's a memorable stop at the heart of the town.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (90)

St Ann's Well - Public Water Fountain on The Crescent in Buxton is a long-running local spot where warm, mineral-rich spring water flows freely; visitors and residents commonly fill bottles here and describe the water as clean, pleasantly mineral-tasting and around the same warm temperature, making it a memorable, low-key stop close to The Crescent and Pavilion Gardens.

Legends l

4 months ago

"A popular well in Buxton known for its warm water. Locals often come here fetch water in gallons, a tradition that has lasted for decades to thisday. A lovely place and rare in this day and age...."

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Chaya Ko

a month ago

"We were strolling around there on a Sunday morning and happened to see locals filling up their water bottles so we followed. The water was warm andnice tasting. Definitely a great experience..."

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Davor Colic

6 months ago

"A lovely spot with deep historical roots right in the heart of Buxton. St A 's Well offers free, warm mineral spring water that's been flowing forcenturies — it comes out at around 27°C and tastes clean and slightly mineral-rich. Locals regularly fill up bottles here, and it's a fun, unique experience to try it fresh from the source. The surrounding area is charming too, with The Crescent and Pavilion Gardens just nearby. Definitely worth a stop if you're in town! warm and magical..."

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FAQs for Visiting St Ann’s Well

It’s recommended-many visitors fill bottles to take home.

Yes, the water is safe and regularly tested.

It rises from deep underground, carrying geothermal heat.

No, it flows continuously year-round.

Yes, the site has been used since Roman times and earlier.

Nearby Attractions to St Ann’s Well

The Crescent: Buxton's grand Georgian spa centrepiece.
Pump Room: Learn about the town’s hydrotherapy history.
Pavilion Gardens: Scenic lakeside and woodland paths nearby.
Cavendish Arcade: Independent shops in historic thermal baths.
Devonshire Dome: A striking landmark with the UK's largest unsupported dome.

The St Ann’s Well appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Buxton!

Moira & Andy

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